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The Arsenal star has been one of the best players in his position in the Premier League, but his former coach never saw it coming
Bukayo Saka’s former youth coach recently expressed his surprise at seeing the Arsenal star excel as a right-winger.
Saka, now 23, has become one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers recently, but according to his ex-coach, it was never on the cards, considering his early development journey.
Saka’s humble beginnings
Saka’s football journey began at Watford before he joined Arsenal’s academy at just eight years old.
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His potential was evident early on, with his impressive pace and strength enabling him to compete in older age groups.
Saka’s versatility allowed him to play across multiple positions, a trait that would later help him adapt and thrive in Arsenal’s senior team.
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Recognising his exceptional talent, Arsenal moved quickly to secure Saka’s future by offering him scholarship terms while he was still playing for the Under-14s; a rare move signalling their faith in his potential.
From left-back to right-wing
Dan Micciche, who coached Saka during his time in Arsenal’s youth setup, recently shared his surprise at seeing Saka become one of the league’s most feared right-wingers.
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Speaking about the Arsenal winger, Micciche said, “If you were to ask me back then, did I see Bukayo becoming such an outstanding right-winger? I would have said no.
“Not because he couldn’t play right-wing, but he was a really good left-back!” Micciche added.
Despite his start as a left-back, Saka has gone on to become one of the most efficient right-wingers in the country and recently became the sixth-youngest player in history to reach 50 Premier League goals, beating even Arsenal legend Thierry Henry.
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